Solid state thermoelectric power converter

Abstract

High efficiency conversion of heat energy to electrical energy is achieved using a ring of metallic components and anodically sliced, reduced barriers, high purity n-type and p-type semiconductor wafers. Energy produced by heating one set of fins and cooling another set is extracted from a ring of bismuth telluride based n-type wafers and antimony telluride based p-type wafers using make-before-break control of MOSfet switch banks. Standard AC frequencies and DC output result from rectification of make-before-break high frequency switched very high currents in the ring and a DC to AC converter. Solar energy stored in porcelain fragments extends the time that solar energy can be used as the heat source for the thermoelectric generator device.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 154,757, filed May 23, 2002, now abandoned entitled “Torus Semiconductor Thermoelectric Device” published Nov. 27, 2003.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]This invention relates to a circular array of semiconductor and conductive elements that comprise a high efficiency thermoelectric generator device. Energy generated by a temperature differential between hot and cold fins of the thermoelectric generator device is more efficiently converted to electrical energy by a combination of both high efficiency semiconductor elements and a high frequency direct current to direct current switching component. When combined with an H-bridge the combination produces alternating current output of various standard voltages and frequencies. Improved cooling efficiency is obtained by increasing the surface area of the cold fins. This is accomplished by splitting and displacing the lower portion of the cold ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0020]It is a further purpose of this invention to provide a high efficiency of transmission of energy contained in a thermoelectric torus by an improved make-before-break switching control system utilizing special physical connections to the ring-shaped thermoelectric generator device.

[0024]It is a further purpose of this invention to provide a means to energize the control board and thereby replace the need for a battery in the device.

[0025]It is a further purpose of this invention to improve the efficiency of power conversion by splitting the ends of cold fins and thereby increasing the surface area available for cooling.

[0028]2. an upconverter component with power takeoffs for removing electrical energy generated from high currents produced in the thermoelectric generator component;

Problems solved by technology

Thermoelectric generator devices have been used for many years for specific applications where the simplicity of design warrants their use despite low energy conversion efficiency.

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